Think you need a fancy degree or years of experience to start your own interior design business? Think again! The truth is, you don’t need a formal education to turn your passion for design into a thriving career. Plenty of successful designers have built their businesses from the ground up without ever stepping foot in a design school.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to start an interior design business with no experience (or degree!). From learning the basics and building a portfolio to landing your first clients and setting up your business, you’ll get all the practical steps you need to make your dream a reality.
So, if you’ve been obsessing over color palettes, rearranging furniture for fun, and dreaming about helping others create beautiful spaces—this is your sign to go for it! Let’s dive in.
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Do you need a degree or experience to be an interior designer?
If you love design, are willing to learn, and have a strong work ethic, nothing is stopping you from starting your own interior design business—even if you’re starting from scratch.
Let’s get one thing straight: you absolutely do not need a formal degree to start your own interior design business. While some designers choose to go the traditional route and study interior design in college, many successful professionals have built thriving businesses without ever stepping foot in a design school.
Now, there is a difference between an interior designer and an interior decorator—and that’s where things get a little technical. If you plan on working on large commercial projects (like hotels or office buildings), some states require certification or a degree. But if you’re focused on residential design or offering e-design services, there are zero legal barriers to getting started. Your talent, creativity, and ability to transform a space matter far more than a diploma on the wall.
If you need a little proof that success is possible without a degree, let’s talk about someone who did exactly that.
Example: Kimberly Horton
For Kimberly Horton, interior design wasn’t always the plan. In fact, she started her career in a traditional 9-to-5 job, never imagining she’d one day run a sought-after design firm. But everything changed when her daughter had a medical crisis—she knew she needed more flexibility and time with her family.
Her journey into design started out of necessity. While pregnant with twins, she and her husband bought a fixer-upper, desperate for more space. Managing a full home renovation with one-year-olds in tow wasn’t exactly glamorous, but it unlocked a passion she didn’t know she had. She quickly realized she had a talent for seeing the potential in a space, solving design challenges, and creating homes that felt beautiful, functional, and intentional.
By 2016, she took the leap and officially launched her own design business, House of Savoy. She learned the ropes through hands-on experience, transforming her own home and later working with clients who trusted her vision. Fast forward a few years, and all those sleepless nights paid off—Kimberly won HGTV’s Designer of the Year in 2020, and her work has been featured in Architectural Digest, House Beautiful, and St. Louis Homes & Lifestyles. And she did it all without a degree in interior design.
If you want to learn from Kimberly and other experts, be sure to check out our free online workshops.
Building your interior design skills without a degree
So, you’re obsessed with interiors, constantly rearrange your furniture for fun, and dream of helping people create beautiful spaces—but you don’t have a degree. Guess what? You don’t need one. The best designers aren’t just book-smart; they have an eye for detail, a passion for aesthetics, and a willingness to learn.
The good news? There are so many ways to build your skills and confidence as a designer—all from the comfort of your own home. Here’s how to get started:
Self-education: your DIY design school
You don’t need a professor to teach you interior design. With the right resources, you can teach yourself everything from color theory to space planning.
- Take online courses: Platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare offer affordable courses on everything from furniture layout to styling tips.
- Read, read, read: Dive into industry blogs, interior design books, and magazines like Architectural Digest and House Beautiful for endless inspiration.
- Study the greats: Follow successful designers on social media, analyze their work, and pay attention to how they mix colors, textures, and furniture.
Hands-on practice: learn by doing
The best way to learn? Get your hands dirty. You don’t need clients (yet!)—you just need a space to experiment with.
- Start with your own home: Redecorate a room, rearrange furniture, or give an old piece a fresh coat of paint.
- Offer to help friends & family: Design a friend’s living room or help your mom refresh her bedroom—experience is experience.
- Volunteer for small projects: Local businesses, charities, or community centers often need a design refresh, and it’s a great way to build your portfolio.
Learn interior design software: your secret weapon
In today’s digital world, clients love seeing professional, realistic design presentations. That’s where software comes in.
- Get comfortable with design tools: Programs like SketchUp, AutoCAD, Canva, and DesignFiles help you create mood boards, floor plans, and 3D renderings.
- Practice creating mock projects: Design a dream home just for fun! The more you practice, the easier it gets.
- Stay ahead of the curve: The more tech-savvy you are, the more polished and professional your designs will look.
Choosing your interior design niche
When you’re just starting out, it’s tempting to take on any and every project that comes your way. But narrowing your focus can actually help you grow faster. Having a niche allows you to attract the right clients, refine your skills, and stand out in a crowded industry.
There are many paths to take in interior design. You might focus on residential projects, specializing in budget-friendly makeovers, high-end luxury spaces, or rental-friendly designs. If you prefer a more digital approach, e-design lets you work with clients remotely. Other niches include office and small business interiors or styling spaces for Airbnb and short-term rentals.
To find the right fit, think about your strengths and what excites you the most. Whether it’s designing cozy homes or sleek workspaces, choosing a niche will set you up for long-term success.
Check out page 29 of our guide to starting an e-design business for dozens of niches to choose from.
Creating a portfolio without client experience
Every designer starts somewhere, and your portfolio doesn’t need to be filled with paid projects to make an impact. The key is to showcase your style, creativity, and ability to transform a space. Here are a few ways to build a portfolio that looks professional, even if you’re just starting out.
- Showcasing personal projects: Use your own home or stage rooms to demonstrate your design skills. Even small updates, like styling a bookshelf or refreshing a bedroom, can show off your eye for detail.
- Offering free or discounted services initially: Work on a few pro bono projects for friends, family, or local businesses in exchange for high-quality photos and testimonials.
- Using virtual tools to create sample designs: Experiment with 3D rendering software to create mock designs that highlight your creativity and technical skills.
- Before & after comparisons: Show transformation through side-by-side images, whether it’s a full room makeover or a simple decor refresh.
Setting up your interior design business legally
Starting your interior design business means making it official. While it’s exciting to focus on design, setting up the legal side will give you peace of mind and help you avoid future headaches. Choosing the right business structure, handling contracts, and understanding licensing requirements are all important steps.
If you plan to work on residential projects, you likely won’t need a license. However, some states require certification for large-scale commercial work. Taking the time to get everything in order now will make running your business much smoother.
Here are a few steps to take:
- Choose a business name
- Register your business (sole proprietorship vs. LLC)
- Set up contracts, invoices, and client agreements
- Check state licensing requirements for interior designers
How to get your first clients without experience
Getting your first clients is all about putting yourself out there and showing what you can do. Even without experience, there are plenty of ways to build credibility and attract people who need your help. Start by focusing on your network and using digital platforms to showcase your work.
- Leveraging personal networks: Start by offering design help to friends and family. Ask them to spread the word and refer you to anyone looking for interior design services.
- Using social media & online marketing: Share before-and-after projects on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok to showcase your style. Join Facebook groups related to home decor and offer helpful advice. Create a Houzz profile to connect with potential clients.
- Offering free design consultations to attract leads: A short, free consultation can help potential clients see your skills in action and feel confident about hiring you.
- Partnering with local businesses: Connect with furniture stores, realtors, and home stagers who can refer clients to you when they need design expertise.
Pricing your services as a new designer
Figuring out what to charge can feel overwhelming, but setting clear pricing from the start will help you attract the right clients and build a sustainable business. There are a few common pricing models in the industry, including flat fees (a set price per project), hourly rates (charging based on time spent), and the cost-plus model (charging a markup on furniture and decor).
When you’re just starting out, it’s okay to charge lower rates while building your portfolio, but be mindful not to undervalue your work. Research what other designers in your area charge and set a price that feels fair for your time and effort. As you gain experience, build confidence, and refine your process, gradually increase your rates to reflect the value you bring to each project.
Building your interior design brand & website
Your brand is more than just a logo or color scheme—it’s the way you present yourself, your style, and the experience you offer clients. A website is a key part of that brand, giving potential clients a place to see your work, learn about your process, and get in touch. Even if you’re just starting out, having a polished online presence helps establish credibility and makes you look professional.
You don’t need coding skills or a big budget to create a beautiful website. Platforms like Canva and Wix make it easy to design a site that reflects your style and showcases your work.
What to include in your website:
- About page (your story and design philosophy)
- Portfolio (photos of work, even if self-initiated)
- Services (full service, designer for a day, virtual design, etc.)
- Contact form for inquiries
Growing your business over time
Once you’ve booked your first few clients, the next step is to keep the momentum going. Growth doesn’t happen overnight, but by building relationships, refining your process, and expanding your services, you can create a sustainable and successful business.
Networking is key to attracting new clients and staying connected in the industry. Attending design events and joining online communities can open doors to new opportunities. Listening to client feedback helps you improve your process, making each project smoother and more enjoyable.
As demand increases, consider bringing on help or outsourcing certain tasks. Expanding your services, such as offering project management or custom furniture design, can create new revenue streams and set you apart. Growth happens step by step, and each project brings you closer to building the business you envision.
Key takeaways
You don’t need a degree or years of experience to start your interior design business. With dedication, creativity, and a strategic approach, you can build a successful career on your own terms. Start practicing today, create a portfolio, and put yourself out there—your first client is closer than you think.
For more tips on getting started, check out these resources:
Build your business on the right foundation with DesignFiles, the top-rated solution for small and solo firms.
